A Maryport man was left unconscious after a serious assault at a Workington town social club on Saturday.

The man, who is in his fifties, was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary at Newcastle where he remains, having yet to regain consciousness.

Three men have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent following the assault, which took place outside Trades Hall Social Club in Brow Top, Workington, at about 7.45pm.

The men – two aged 18 and one aged 20 – are from the west Cumbria area and remain in police custody.

Mary Bainbridge, town and district councillor for the ward and former town mayor, said: “When we receive police reports at our meetings we can see that violence is increasing, the statistics are quite bad.

“We need to work out what we can do to counteract this, we continue to work with the police.

“It’s everyone’s duty to report to the police if they see anything suspicious. I’m personally not worried when I go out at night but there’s more and more groups of young people that gather in town.

“Elderly people or people on their own could feel intimidated because they can sound quite rowdy.

“I think that’s a sign that there isn’t anything for young people to do and we need to combat this.”

Andrew Lawson, town councillor for the ward, said: “I’m saddened and shocked at this news.

“I’m surprised that this kind of attack would take place in Workington. I hope it’s a freak incident and it doesn’t happen again.”

Mr Lawson, 25, added that people should not feel alarmed.

He said: “I feel safe when I go out in town, I’ve never been verbally or physically abused. I don’t think people should be concerned about their safety.

“It’s always good to be cautious, but I’m hoping this was an isolated case.”

Detectives investigating Saturday night’s incident are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Roy Ledingham said: “There were a number of people at the scene of the assault who will have important information which will assist with our investigation.

“We are urging anyone who saw what happened and is yet to come forward or anyone who has information which might assist to contact us immediately.”

Anyone who can help should call 101 and ask to speak with Workington CID.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.